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  • What is Passive Design? (and How Will it Benefit your Custom Luxury Home?)

    What is Passive Design? (and How Will it Benefit your Custom Luxury Home?)

    Comfort is the best quality a home can have, and as luxury custom home builders, we know that maintaining comfort throughout the seasons can be taxing both financially and unsustainably. That’s why whenever we design a home, we consider passive design — a sustainable and beneficial practice. But what is passive design? Keep reading to find out about the importance of passive design as well as some luxurious green touches that will maximise your comfort and mitigate your bills.

    luxury custom home

    Defining passive design

    Put simply, passive design takes into account several factors such as building materials, window placement, room placement and land positioning to leverage the climate to keep your home warm in winter and cool during summer. This lessens the need for active methods like air conditioning (which can make up roughly 40% of energy usage in Australian homes and are costly).

    The ultimate goal is to eliminate the need for these active methods and instead take advantage of the sun and cool air to carry the bulk of the load. Efficiently built envelopes are important — as they act as the barriers between the external and internal environment — as well as appropriate insulation.

    How does insulation factor into this?

    Insulation is one of the most crucial aspects of a passively designed home. There are several different types of insulation available that our luxury custom home builders can install and each type will bring its own benefits to the table. The important specs to look out for, though, are the R-values.

    R-values determine the insulation’s thermal resistance; different products will have different ranges, but what you should keep in mind is that the higher the R-value, the more effective the insulation. The primary goal of insulation is essentially the same purpose that fuels passive design; insulation works by slowing the transference of heat — whether that be keeping it inside longer during winter or keeping it outside longer during summer.

    Choosing the right position (and being aware of passive design)

    As mentioned earlier, the positioning of your home and the placement of the windows play a significant part in passive design; catching the morning sun, for example, can be a real treat during those cold winter mornings which is why north-facing windows are highly sought-after additions in key rooms.

    Our luxury custom home builders highly recommend you consider double-glazed windows which will allow the sun’s radiant energy to penetrate but will then ensure that heat is trapped inside your home — leaking out very slowly. Of course, this can present an issue in summer, which is why it is up to the occupants to ensure that windows enduring the full force of the sun’s rays are covered during hot weather. Heavy drapes or thick blinds will be sufficient to circumvent your home from overheating — that way, the other passive aspects of your home can pull their weight.

    Solar power

    It’s no secret that electricity can be costly, especially when you’re using it in large quantities, but a smart (and sustainable) way to mitigate that is to install solar panels and batteries. Leveraging solar power is a clever and economical option that can actually provide you with an auxiliary income (as any remaining power you do not use will be fed back into the public power grid to be utilised by others in your community if you so choose).

    Solar power also means that if you do need to use your air conditioning for a period during extremely hot or cold days, you’ll be using a renewable source. Solar panels should be installed at angles between 10° and 35° on north-facing roofs for the best efficiency across the board — ensuring they can take in the sun’s energy throughout the day. Installing photovoltaic solar panels on your home’s roof with a storage battery is a luxurious and sustainable feature that you will be able to use every day.

    Are you looking for luxury custom home builders?

    The keys to a passively designed home are all achievable during the initial construction; this is the best time to decide whether or not you would like your future home’s passive energy efficiency taken into account and something the luxury custom home builders at S & B Lamble Builders can help you with.

    With over 35 years of experience in the construction sector, our veterans know the ins and outs of residential homes and will offer unique insight and evaluations pre-construction in addition to turning your dream home into a luxurious, high-quality reality.

    Give us a call today on (03) 5941 8135 or contact us via our website if you would like to find out more about how we can help with your luxury custom home project.

  • The Importance of Proper Insulation in a Custom Commercial Building

    The Importance of Proper Insulation in a Custom Commercial Building

    Whether it’s a retail, office, school or hospitality space — the comfort of staff and guests should always be considered in a commercial building. Our custom commercial builders always strive to ensure that the end-product is finished impeccably and with all elements in mind and that includes temperature and sound regulation. The most effective way to ensure your building stays cool during hot days and warm during cold days is with quality insulation. Keep reading to find out why insulation is such an important aspect of any custom commercial building.

    Exterior wall insulation done in a commercial building

    The benefits of insulation

    Insulation is the ultimate thermal regulation method and will passively guarantee comfort in your building all year round. In a nutshell, insulation slows the transfer of heat. If it’s a 30° C day outside, then insulation will slow that heat from entering the building. Similarly, on a colder day, the heat will remain within the building for a lot longer. This can lead to a massive reduction in air conditioning costs as there will be less need to run it so often.

    Another often overlooked benefit of insulation is that it can suppress outside noise to a degree, depending on the type of insulation you use (acoustic and high-density varieties feature superior soundproofing properties). This comes in handy for commercial buildings located in high-traffic areas or areas with constant noise pollution and means your staff can enjoy a more tranquil environment with clients/customers also enjoying a pleasanter experience.

    Additionally, insulation carries with it environmental benefits both directly and indirectly. Less frequent use of air conditioning means there is less energy being expended — resulting in the mitigation of greenhouse emissions. Insulation products such as glasswool are made entirely from recycled materials such as glass and sand and still hold fantastic thermal and acoustic properties — making it a sustainable and practical solution for any commercial building.

    Insulation solutions made for the commercial sector

    There are several types of insulation products that are commonly used in commercial buildings. Our custom commercial builders can recommend different ones to you based on your structure type and other relevant aspects. Some of the common areas that need to be insulated include the roof, ceiling and wall. However, some extra commercial-specific solutions should also be considered.

    • HVAC ducts — There are boards and blanket insulation products that are used to insulate both the internal and external areas of HVAC ducts to ensure optimal performance throughout all seasons of the year. There are a variety of sizes, thicknesses and facings available to suit more specific requirements.

    • Underslab — Underslab insulation is specifically made for multi-level commercial buildings and is incredibly useful when it comes to regulating both heat and sound between floors.

    • Passive fire protection — The danger of a fire is always present regardless of what building you’re in and the best thing you can do to maximise safety during such an event is install passive fire protection products that are BCA(Building Code Australia) and BAL (Bushfire Attack Level) rated. These non-combustible products are designed to give occupants more time to escape in case of a fire by offering increased protection.

    Different materials for different requirements

    In addition to various types of insulation solutions, there are also several materials that all suit different types of buildings more effectively. Have you opted for a metal roof for your retail space?

    Special glasswool blankets such as Bradford’s Anticon, which is covered with foil on one side, are made specifically to be installed between metal roofs and ceilings — improving thermal efficiency whilst also preventing condensation from forming in winter. Our custom commercial builders can help you choose the right insulation solution for your new commercial property.

    Speaking of condensation…

    In addition to insulation, wall wrap is another solution that is crucial for any new commercial building. Whilst insulation concentrates on improving the thermal and acoustic efficiency of a building, wall wrap mitigates draughts and moisture from coming through.  This ultimately helps the insulation do its job. 

    If insulation becomes wet, then it won’t operate at full capacity until it’s properly dried — so by mitigating moisture, the wall wrap essentially protects the insulation. By reducing the risk of draughts there is also less chance of the regulated air escaping from the building. Additionally, wall wrap can help protect the frame and structure of a building from the elements whilst it’s still being built.

    Are you looking for custom commercial builders?

    S & B Lamble Builders have over 35 years of experience constructing quality, custom commercial buildings and can help you bring your next commercial structure to life.

    Give us a call on (03) 5941 8135 or fill out our online enquiry form if you would like to contact us. You may also directly submit a tender to us at [email protected].

  • 5 Lavish Backyard Features for your Luxury Home

    5 Lavish Backyard Features for your Luxury Home

    Our luxury home builders have witnessed a variety of lavish and extravagant backyards that complement newly built custom homes over the last 35 years. Yards have so much potential and the more room you have the larger the scope of possibility becomes. Let’s take a look at five lavish features that really take a custom luxury home to the next level.

    luxury custom outdoor space

    1.     Outdoor living space

    A highly sought-after luxury feature is an outside living space. There is so much possibility depending on whether you’re after a more casual or formal touch. If you’re having trouble deciding, you can just opt for both if you have the space and combine the two. Some popular elements include complete kitchens, speakers/televisions, couches/lounges, dining sets and even outdoor fireplaces. If done correctly, you’ll rarely have to go inside for anything.

    Outdoor living spaces are particularly useful when it comes to entertaining guests. If you’re going for a fully fitted-out option with a kitchen and all then we highly recommend placing it all undercover, which will also shield the furnishings from the elements. Of course, if you have the space, a separate, uncovered living space could come in handy as well but would probably feature fewer amenities.

    2.     Swimming pool and spa

    A swimming pool with an additional spa is probably the quintessential luxury backyard feature and one that our builders have seen plenty of variations of. Let’s start big — if you’re looking to make an impression and add a splash of next-level luxury to your backyard, then you should build an indoor pool. Indoor pools are essentially accessory buildings made specifically to house a swimming pool and should also have space for changing rooms or even other activity rooms (like an at-home gym or yoga studio, for example).

    If you prefer to have a more traditional pool out in the elements, then there’s plenty you can do to make it luxurious and lavish. Adding a spa is definitely one of those features and another one can be attaching some marble water features. If you’re looking for more ideas on how to make your swimming pool more extravagant, you can check out our article dedicated to luxury swimming pool features.

    3.     Hedge art

    Whether you’re looking to pick up a hobby or are hiring a professional to do it — hedge art is an immaculate addition to your backyard (and even front yard) and allows for your creativity and personal passions to be represented through a unique and gorgeous medium. Whilst larger pieces will require big backyards, you can definitely still feature some smaller pieces if you haven’t quite got the space. Hedge art is also a great conversation starter, however, it will require regular maintenance.

    4.     Elevated gazebo

    Placing a gazebo in your backyard takes the idea of a pergola and makes it more regal and structured. Depending on the size, you will be able to fill it with a variety of furnishings and the solid rooftop will ensure enjoyment all year round. Making it a centrepiece (both literally and figuratively) is a fantastic design choice and elevating it so it sits a bit higher will add a distinctive depth that you won’t be able to fully appreciate until you’re actually experiencing it.

    Our luxury home builders would also recommend a dedicated path leading from your home to the gazebo. The path itself opens up plenty of opportunity for border decorations as well as a roof that will shield your walk to the gazebo during a downpour. The gazebo is the perfect setting for you to do some work, read a book or even enjoy a quiet, outdoor lunch.

    5.     Japanese ponds

    If you’re looking to add a touch of classic culture to your garden, then Japanese ponds are the way to go. Not only will they add a truly unique aspect to your yard, but they’ll become a tranquil and coveted area ideal for relaxation. You can even purchase some fish to add to the pond for authenticity. Japanese ponds generally have lavish additions such as mini-waterfalls, stepping-stones and lots of shrubbery and native plants.

    Are you looking for luxury home builders in Melbourne?

    S & B Lamble Builders are experienced luxury home builders that can make your residential dream a reality. We’re passionate about providing the premium service that you would expect for such high-end construction projects. We’ll work with you and your architect to iron out any kinks and ensure that everything is achievable whilst still remaining true to your vision.

    Give us a call on (03) 5941 8135 or fill out our contact form if you would like to chat to with about your dream home.

  • Designing the Modern Classroom

    Designing the Modern Classroom

    As technology continues to progress to new heights — many professions must adapt to embrace and leverage new technology. That’s why today, our custom commercial builders are going to be looking at technology in schools, and more specifically, how to design a modern classroom with technology in mind. Let’s start with the different age groups and what their requirements may be.

    Modern classroom

    Different year levels and technology

    Over the last decade, it has become commonplace for students to be provided with iPads or Android tablets by the school for the purpose of both improving efficiency and encouraging technological learning. This is a practice we now see students in younger and younger grades participating in as technology becomes a more dominant driving force in our society.

    20 years ago, your average high-school classroom, for example, would have had a PC or two and two–three power points spread out around the room. Nowadays this is unlikely to be the case as every student will have a personal tablet or laptop. Some schools may even have Chromecast or Apple TVs in every classroom to provide students with an easy way to share their work with the class.

    Even interactive whiteboards — a technology that is used at all levels of education and even in other professional fields — are starting to appear in classrooms as a modern way for the teacher to interact with their students. Whilst writing is still encouraged and is a talent that should not be forgotten — personal tablets and laptops also eliminate the need for multiple folders and workbooks — ultimately leading to a cleaner and potentially smaller desk.

    Planning for the modern classroom — power points

    With the knowledge that personal tablets and laptops — as well as other hardware — are now commonplace in a school classroom across multiple year levels, it’s time to ask what can be done to optimise the classroom for these modern changes. The most obvious addition would be more power points. Given the electrical requirements needed, this is an element that should be factored in early during a renovation or building plan.

    Power points along the wall are useful, however, students will be using their devices all day in some cases and others will have forgotten to charge them overnight. For this, our custom commercial builders recommend two approaches. The first is best suited for rooms with fixed desk positions so the power points can be more-or-less installed at each student’s desk.

    The second option works for the aforementioned setup but is also more suited for a roaming desk layout. This involves installing the power points in hidden compartments beneath the ground. When they’re not being used the compartment can be closed — adding to the seamless aesthetic of the room as well as its functionality.

    These should be positioned in key points around the room with four–five power points in each compartment (this could be more depending on the size of the average class). Additionally, power points should be installed in the ceiling to account for any projectors or other hardware that requires power.

    Furnishings and using the space

    Technology in the modern classroom is about more than just extra power points for electronic devices. The traditional classroom that utilised strict desk culture is starting to fade. For example — reading and even writing on a tablet device is much easier to do on an angle rather than on a flat desk.

    Additionally, if fewer textbooks and folders are being carried around, smaller desks can be considered. This can leave space for other things in a classroom like reading corners or dedicated device charging stations.

    Something that has a little less to do with technology and more with modern design — is large windows and skylights (where possible). Natural light is often overlooked, and classic classrooms featured very rigid window designs. Natural light is much more beneficial than artificial light and can help brighten some students’ temperaments, boost their vitamin D storage and lead to better productivity.

    Are you looking for custom commercial builders for a school building?

    S & B Lamble Builders are professional and qualified custom commercial builders who have had over 35 years of experience building custom properties such as schools. If you’re looking for contractors to transform your truly unique, modern and functional vision into a reality, then look no further than S & B Lamble Builders.

    Give us a call today on (03) 5941 8135 for a chat or fill out our online contact form with the relevant information so we can get back to you as soon as possible.

  • 4 Unique Elements that Transcend a Winery

    4 Unique Elements that Transcend a Winery

    Wineries are synonymous with rolling hills, relaxing experiences and of course, great wine. Whether it’s a weekend away, corporate event or wedding – wineries offer the perfect backdrop for cherished memories and are only becoming more popular. But what makes the winery itself special? As custom commercial builders, we’ve had the privilege to work on a number of wineries in varying degrees and are here to present four unique elements that truly transcend your average winery into a distinctive locale.

    Winery with Dinning

    1.     Outdoor coverings

    Outdoor coverings are a simple feature with the potential to change the entire mood and capabilities of a winery if done correctly. One of the best parts about going to a winery is relaxing outside whilst sampling and mingling – but sometimes the weather doesn’t always allow that and forces the fun indoors.

    A simple sold-roofed pergola or other outdoor covering will negate the necessity to move indoors and allow you to continue to soak in the outdoor ambience. We’re not just talking about rain, though, as sometimes a sunny, cloudless day can bring down a lot of heat and UV rays. The covered areas can offer much-needed harbour from the intense weather.

    Similarly, a deck on a winery should be at least partially covered to offer a similar sort of experience. Decks tend to cater more towards the sit-down experience and will allow you to enjoy your fine-dining experience outside regardless of what the weather has in store.

    2.     A distinctive cellar door

    A cellar door is a very common feature for a winery to have – in fact, it’s rarer for a winery to not have one. The best way to set your winery apart from the rest (other than offer exceptional wine) is to create an unforgettable experience. This could be in the way you present the wine or the way your cellar is designed or laid out.

    Consider alternative designs that go beyond the modern restaurant/bar look or cookie-cutter wine cellar aesthetic that – whilst timeless and carries a certain charm to it – is featured heavily in wineries all over the world.

    Try to think of something that is directly influenced by your wine and its origins for example. If you’re using a lot of Spanish grapes and are producing high-quality Tempranillo’s, then perhaps a cellar door inspired by some iconic Spanish wineries would be a place to start.

    3.     Fine dining

    It’s become common practise for a winery to feature a restaurant that offers seasonal and locally sourced fine dining options. Mastering this will give you a huge leg up over any competitors as one of the few things better than tasting a fantastic glass of wine is pairing it with delicious and expertly prepared food.

    There are several avenues you can follow in terms of the menu and when it comes to the dining room itself, you can discuss it with our custom commercial builders and an architect who will be able to help you achieve an aesthetic that will suit the rest of the winery.

    4.     On-site accommodation

    Building luxurious accommodation besides your winery is the ultimate way to hook guests and create an unforgettable experience that will go beyond a single day. It opens up doors for a variety of other activities such as yoga classes and hiking trails, as well as in-room dining packages and bundle packages for those longer stays – allowing people to spend entire weeks or weekends away at your winery. 

    The benefit of having the accommodation so close is that your guests won’t have to travel so far to savour the experience. This is an attractive idea and a smart investment that will pay off in the long run.

    Are you looking for custom commercial builders?

    S & B Lamble Builders have had years over 35 years of experience within the commercial construction sector – positioning us suitably to build your winery. We’ll work closely with you and the architect to ensure that every minute detail is given the attention that it deserves. Our builders are all highly trained, qualified and experienced ensuring a premium quality product through and through.

    If you would like to get in touch with us to discuss our commercial construction service, then please don’t hesitate to give us a call on (03) 5941 8135 or fill out the contact form on our website.

  • The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Homes

    The Ultimate Guide to Holiday Homes

    It’s one of the ultimate dreams for some – to have another home you can go to during the holiday season (or whenever you may choose) and relax or even rent out to others as a secondary source of income. There are a few key elements that truly make a holiday home stand-out and our luxury home builders are going to be covering them in today’s article.

    luxury custom home

    Open-planned living

    A holiday home should be as open as possible – small, closed rooms tend to feel restrictive whereas open and interconnected rooms will feel airy and more relaxed. It’s also great for entertaining guests and leaves more room for furnishings. Staples like joint living rooms and kitchens with a large kitchen island bench are essentials – being both practical as well as stylish.

    Large windows

    Provided you don’t have neighbours that can peak right into your living room – large windows and even skylights are highly recommended because no matter what the weather is like it will always bring a gorgeous mood with it.

    If it’s sunny then your living room will be flooded with natural light and if it’s raining it will help to create a cosy ambience that would pair perfectly with a fireplace. Our luxury home builders recommend double-glazed windows, so the outside weather doesn’t creep too much into your internal ecosystem.

    Multiple bedrooms and bathrooms

    If you’re planning on visiting your holiday home with family friends (or even renting it out when you’re not using it) then having multiple bedrooms and bathrooms is great for ensuring everyone has a comfortable experience.

    If this is the case, it’s worth giving the same amount of detail and care to the construction of the other bedrooms as is given to the master bedroom for the ultimate premium experience. This will also allow you to offer a higher price if you’re offering it as a temporary holiday home for others.

    Special amenities

    Having special amenities in your holiday house – like a billiards or foosball table – is a great way to drive up its value as well as offer endless entertainment for you or your guests. You can insert them into one of the main rooms or request a specially designed room to specifically house such amenities.

    This room could be a specific entertainment room with a bar, television, seating and even mood lighting. It essentially would be like a second living room, but one designed more-so with entertainment in mind rather than an all-rounder like living rooms tend to be.

    Outdoor living

    Generally speaking, holiday homes that tend to be located down the coast have huge potential for stunning outdoor living setups. This could be a simple deck with a barbeque and some basic furnishings – or, you could go a few steps further and create a more detailed outdoor living room with a kitchen, roof, fireplace and even some built-in speakers. Additionally, having a swimming pool will yield heaps of fun if you’re not feeling up to heading down to the beach.

    Location

    If you’re looking to build your holiday home down by the coast then you’ll be able to enjoy stunning ocean and beach views – this especially rings true for homes that are built on hills where the vertical positioning will give you a geographical advantage. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a different vibe, then a holiday home near a forest will give you a serene and gorgeous ambience – especially when it starts raining.

    Additionally, consider nearby amenities such as supermarkets, restaurants/cafes, petrol stations etc. as you don’t want to be travelling too far for your basic necessities. It’s crucial to take the location into account before starting construction.

    Low maintenance

    Since you probably won’t be spending the majority of your time in your holiday home, it’s best to ensure that it’s low maintenance so you don’t have to worry about cleaning it so often. If you’re going to be renting it to guests over the years, then choosing materials that are easy to clean is key.

    For example, white tiles will dirty easily due to their colour, however, because they’re tiles they’ll also be quite easy to clean – so it’s that perfect middle ground of looking stunning but also being easily cleanable for the next set of guests.

    Are you looking for luxury home builders?

    S & B Lamble Builders are the ultimate luxury home builders in Melbourne and can create your dream holiday home with the utmost care and proficiency. Our experience and impeccable attention to detail allows us to craft the finest luxury homes in Melbourne – so, what are you waiting for?

    Give us a call on (03) 5941 8135 or fill out the contact sheet on our website if you’d like to have a chat with us.

  • Top 5 Elements of a Luxury Swimming Pool

    Top 5 Elements of a Luxury Swimming Pool

    Spring is coming to a close and the gorgeous weather we’ve been having recently has gotten our luxury home builders excited for summer. The best way to enjoy summer without worrying about going out is, of course, a swimming pool in your own backyard. At S & B Lamble Builders, we’ve had experience with stunning and luxury swimming pools of all shapes and sizes. If you’re overwhelmed by the sheer number of luxury elements that can go into a swimming pool, then allow us to focus that gaze onto five of the best that will leave no room for doubt when it comes time to make a decision.

    luxury custom home

    1.     Grand tapestry on the pool floor

    Picture it – you’re standing over your pool and see the crystal-clear water that is further emphasised by the magnificent tapestry below it. Our luxury home builders recommend a medium-sized design in the centre that can be complemented by supplemental tiles on the edges of the floor. Alternatively, you can go all out and opt for a single, large design that will cover the whole pool floor. Remember that the colour of the tiles will affect what colour the pool is – so, bright, summery shades like blues, yellows or greens are safe options.

    2.     A water feature

    Complementing your luxury swimming pool with a water feature or two is a great way to improve its overall vibe. This could be a series of small water fountains spread out around the pool that continuously recycle the water and shoot it upwards in an arc back into the pool. Or, for a more lavish centrepiece – why not consider a mini waterfall a metre or two wide. 

    Something like the waterfall can also be adorned extravagantly to match the grand tapestry of your pool’s floor or even independently to make it stand out further. Similarly to a waterfall, you could also design the pool so that the water on one side actually flows off the edge to replicate the effect that the edge of the pool is a waterfall itself.

    3.     Spacious patio and practical materials

    Regulations state that your swimming pool must be gated for safety reasons. But, the room around your pool can still be used to spread out lounges (banana or otherwise), or even a small table and chairs along with large umbrellas for shade. Even certain plants will give the space a more tropical feel. 

    There are several great materials you can use for the flooring surrounding the pool such as specially treated timber (which will look sleek and muted) specifically designed for pool decking and exposed aggregate concrete (which comes in an endless number of design combinations and is slip-resistant).

    4.     A spa

    Whether it’s integrated or a separate feature a metre or two away, a spa is always favourable as it can be used during the cooler climates as well as the warmer ones. As luxury home builders, we’ve seen our fair share of spas and can safely say that the best-sized ones can fit at least seven or eight people in them – so that’s a good place to start. 

    The shape is up to you – both rectangular/square and circle options have their benefits and it really just comes down to personal preference. Having a circular stand-alone or integrated spa at the end of a rectangular pool will look just as good as a rectangular/square spa – as long as you don’t mind the geometrical shift from sharp to round edges.

    5.     Pool heating

    Whilst it may seem like a subtle feature – a heated pool is extremely useful and one that you’ll be taking advantage of frequently throughout the summer (and other seasons). It will allow you to regulate the temperature so a relaxing and even swimming experience can be enjoyed by all. You can choose from solar, gas or electrical heating systems – all of which have their pros and cons. 

    Solar heating is the most environmentally friendly and one of the more efficient methods – becoming even more effective and efficient when used in conjunction with a solar power battery (so you don’t have to rely on the weather being sunny for it to work).

    Are you looking for luxury home builders in Melbourne?

    S & B Lamble Builders have built a vast number of luxury homes over the last 35 years and can help turn your dream home idea into a reality.

    If you’d like to know more about past work and get a feel for our style, then please feel free to view our portfolio. Please give us a call on (03) 5941 8135 or fill out the contact form on our site if you’d like to discuss our services further.

  • Choosing The Right Commercial Builders In Melbourne (In Just 5 Steps)

    Choosing The Right Commercial Builders In Melbourne (In Just 5 Steps)

    Commercial construction is vastly different from residential construction. Not only are the two often on different scales, but they also differ in areas of expectation, skills required, and complexity. Therefore, it’s important to source commercial builders in Melbourne that will be able to make your vision come to life. But with so many commercial construction companies in Melbourne already, how do you choose the right one? We’re sharing some steps on how to figure it out in today’s blog.

    Step 1: Know your project

    Without knowing exactly what you’re looking for, you’ll never be able to find that perfect fit. You need to be able to summarise and present the scope of your project, even including detailed information about measurements where needed. These specifications will allow your commercial builder to provide a more accurate quote, which will give you the opportunity to conduct more precise comparisons between builders.

    Knowing your project will also help you to verbalise your expectations, allowing for clearer communication once the construction process commences.

    Step 2: Learn more about their experience

    When it comes to construction, don’t underestimate the value of experience. A business with many years of industry experience is an immediate indicator that they’ll be a better fit for your project, as opposed to a newer construction company with less to show.

    There are a few key benefits to choosing an experienced builder over one that is new to the industry, including:

    • They have access to – and connections with –
      reputable suppliers and sub-contractors, who will help you achieve quality
      results within your budget
    • They will know how to approach your project in
      the most effective way possible, especially if they have previously completed
      projects just like yours
    • They’ll be much more efficient in organising
      anything externally and communicating with you along the way.

    Step 3: Choose a specialised team

    It’s important to select a builder that specialises in commercial projects – purely because they have a greater capacity to meet your needs and deliver the results you’re striving for.

    However, commercial builders have the added benefit of knowing how to work with your business during the construction process. They understand that any disruptions can result in a loss for your business, so they are often well-equipped to ensure downtimes are kept to an absolute minimum.

    Within commercial building, if you can find a team that specialises in your exact project, you’ll have greater confidence that your expectations will be exceeded by the results.

    Step 4: Check licenses and warranties

    If you choose to work with a commercial builder that does not hold the right licenses and warranties, you could be setting yourself up for failure. Licenses and warranties protect both parties in the event of damage or injury. Without them, you could be opening yourself up to high repair costs, or worse, the job could be completed in a manner that is not compliant with industry standards and regulations. Look for builder’s warranty, liability insurance and worker’s compensation documents.

    Any affiliations or memberships with reputable industry organisations (such as Master Builders Victoria) is also a great sign your commercial builder complies with industry standards.

    Step 5: Examine their portfolio

    What better way to choose a commercial builder than to visually inspect their past projects? While browsing their online gallery is certainly valuable, it never hurts to pay a visit to the site and examine the quality of work executed by the builder. After all, this will give you a good indication of what you can expect for your own project, especially if the building onsite is similar to the one you are envisioning.

    You can also ask the builder directly about their past work. Speak to them to get a good idea of what to expect in terms of timeline, budget, and any other potential challenges.

    Looking for experienced commercial builders in Melbourne?

    At S & B Lamble Builders, we design and execute highly specialised commercial projects in and around Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs. We have over 35 years of experience in delivering stunning commercial solutions in Melbourne, and we are committed to helping local communities build infrastructure that is functional, long-lasting, and beautiful.

    Within the broader classification of commercial construction, we specialise in building government properties, aged care and education facilities, and industrial premises. Whether your envisioned project is small or large-scale, our team is fully licensed and qualified to handle your commercial construction needs.

    If you’d like to submit a tender or want to find out more about our team of commercial builders in Melbourne, then give us a call on (03) 5941 8135 today.